Sonowal urges citizens to protect democratic institutions, ensure electoral transparency

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal called upon citizens to collectively uphold the dignity of democracy, protect the credibility of constitutional institutions and ensure transparency in the electoral system.

He made the appeal while addressing the ‘Prabuddha Nagarik Sabha’ as the Chief Guest at Manab Kalyan Puja Bhawan. The meeting was organised by members of civil society from Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts.

Sonowal said the ongoing public awareness campaign, being conducted under the resolve of “Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy,” aims to safeguard the country's democratic system and strengthen public awareness of democratic values.


He said the campaign had received a positive response from people across different parts of Assam. He alleged that the Congress and certain opposition parties were attempting to mislead people through misinformation and propaganda. In this context, he said, informed citizens had an important responsibility to place facts before the public and preserve people's faith in democratic institutions.

“This responsibility does not rest solely with members of political parties. It belongs to every responsible citizen who believes in and values our democracy,” Sonowal said.

Referring to the debate surrounding the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and ballot papers, Sonowal said the Bharatiya Janata Party had secured public support through both electoral systems. He cited the party's performance in recent municipal elections conducted using ballot papers, claiming that it had secured more than 90% of seats in several areas and up to 96% in some cases. Referring to local-level elections and electoral victories in Tripura, he said it was inappropriate to question the credibility of the democratic system through misinformation about electoral outcomes.

Responding to questions raised by Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders about the electoral process, Sonowal said election results should be assessed in the light of the people's mandate and faith in democratic institutions. He stressed that discussions on electoral transparency and credibility must be based on facts.

Sonowal said India was moving forward collectively under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the vision of becoming a developed, self-reliant and globally influential nation by 2047. He said active participation, commitment and cooperation from every citizen would be essential to realising this national vision.

Sonowal added, “I firmly believe that a strong democracy rests on informed citizens, credible institutions and the active participation of every section of society. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, our government has consistently worked to strengthen democratic governance, ensure transparency and take the benefits of development to every citizen. His vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 calls for collective responsibility, national unity and people's participation. I appeal to every citizen to rise above political differences, uphold democratic values and contribute to building a stronger, more prosperous India.”

Reflecting on his public life, Sonowal said he entered public service through the student movement and subsequently became involved in regional politics. He expressed gratitude to the people for giving him the opportunity and responsibility to serve them as an elected representative.